ArcheoDB, a new geodatabase of archaeological findings for conservation and research in the Emilia- Romagna region (Italy): the case of the Soprintendenza of Parma and Piacenza

The Emilia-Romagna regional branch of the Italian Ministry of Culture (MiC) developed the ArcheoDB geodatabase to facilitate comprehensive and real-time mapping of archaeological sites and activities. The project, initiated in 2019 as part of a PhD research, is based exclusively on open-source technology; it has become the primary research tool for field archaeologists and Ministry officers. The regional Soprintendenze of the MiC actively participates in the retrieval of historical data stored in archives, which are progressively digitized. As of 2023, the cataloging process was mandatory for submitting new excavation documentation. This system is fully compatible with the Geoportale Nazionale per l’Archeologia (GNA - National Archaeological Geoportal) and collects regional data. It offers real-time updates and allows citizens, government entities, professional archaeologists, and researchers to access the open data collected through a web-based platform.